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Dubai is an over-the-top experience, no matter what kind of traveler you are. With its acres of new construction, multiple shopping malls, insane traffic and massive hotel complexes, Dubai does nothing small. For many, it is amazing that a town could go from a small desert backwater 30 years ago to a city nicknamed the "Las Vegas of the East." Dubai has its fair share of famous places, most of which have been built in the past 10 to 15 years. From the tallest building in the world to huge manmade islands, Dubai is full of newsmaking attractions.

Burj al Arab

The Burj al Arab (burjalarab.com) may be the most famous hotel built in the 21st century. The hotel's shape evokes the sail of a dhow, the traditional Indian Ocean sailing vessel used for centuries. The hotel is built on a manmade island just off the coast, and access to the property is heavily regulated; you must either be a guest of the hotel or have hard-won reservations at one of the property's restaurants. The luxury property features high-end amenities in each room, including rain showers and jetted tubs, and has butlers, as well as a fleet of Rolls-Royces on call for guests.

Burj Kalifa

At more than 2,700 feet, the Burj Kalifa (burjkalifa.ae) is the tallest building in the world. It dominates the Dubai landscape and is visible for miles. The structure contains residences, offices and a hotel. The observation deck on the 124th floor (of 160 floors) is open to the public seven days a week from 7 a.m. to midnight. The tower is set in a man-made lake and park, offering green space to visitors. The Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping centers, is within walking distance.

Ski Dubai and the Mall of the Emirates

While skiing probably isn't the first thing you think of regarding Dubai, amazingly enough, it is possible to spend the day skiing in this Middle Eastern desert city. Ski Dubai (skidxb.com) is located in the Mall of the Emirates (malloftheemirates.com) in downtown Dubai. With your ticket price, you receive rental equipment including jackets and ski pants, boots, skis, poles and helmets for kids. Instruction is also included, and the ski area has five runs with varying levels of difficulty. In addition to Ski Dubai, the Mall of the Emirates has more than 520 stores, 85 restaurants and cafes, two hotels, a performing arts center, a 14-screen movie theater and more. According to the mall's website, more than 30 million people visited in 2009.

Palm Islands

The Palm Islands (thepalm.ae) are a trio of man-made islands in the shape of palm fronds off the coast of Dubai. The first of the Palm Islands, Palm Jumeirah (palmjumeirah.ae), is open for business, with the Atlantis Resort on the center "stalk" of the frond. In addition to the resort, Palm Jumeirah also has waterfront homes for sale, public and private beaches, a mall and a monorail for transportation.

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About the Author

Based in New York City, Virginia Watson has been writing and editing professionally since 2004. Her work has appeared in magazines including "The Roanoker Magazine," "Blue Ridge Country," "Pinnacle Living" and the award-winning "Virginia State Travel Guide." Watson holds a Master of Arts in philosophy of education from Virginia Polytechnic and State University.